Tulsa Lovin'

BY BRAVETTA HASSELL World Scene Writer
Tuesday, February 05, 2013
2/05/13 at 6:49 AM

If you haven't started shopping for Valentine's Day, start now.

And according to Mrs. DeHaven's Flower Shop, if you haven't bought those roses for her yet, you're really hitting it close.

Yes, yes, roses, will never go out of style, and if your significant other has another favorite flower, that isn't a bad idea either.

Candy? Candy.

Are all gifts created equal on Valentine's Day? Maybe, if it's the thought that counts.

Is Valentine's Day the most important holiday of the season? Probably not, but what is important, says Julie Kelly, owner of Pavilion, is that you give that special person in your life "something," she said with a chuckle.

Perfume is nice. Chocolate, too. A gift certificate to the spa. A sweet trinket.

"Not a vacuum," Kelly added with more laughter.

Candles are a nice idea. Jewelry isn't bad either. And anything that shows you've been paying attention and lets her know she's cared about, treasured and remembered will strike the right note.

Amy Adkins, owner of Mrs. DeHaven's Shop and The Gadget Company, said that while many think of Valentine's Day as the holiday women are primarily showered with gifts, it's not uncommon for men to get gifts, as well.

Adkins first asks clients about their favorite man's hobbies before getting started on finding that perfect gift. Something he's going to get a lot use out of - a fly box for a fisherman, for instance, is practical and will be appreciated.

This year we shopped around at a few of Tulsa's own businesses for several gift ideas for her and him.

Valentine's Day isn't the $1,000 grill holiday, folks. Save it for Christmas. However, if you're shopping for your guy for this holiday, an idea of what he's interested in will go a long way, and it matters as much at $10 as it does at $100. Does he love the OKC Thunder? This shirt would be perfect. Does he have a thing for vinyl records? Add to his collection by giving him an album from one of his favorite bands. I Love Thunder long-sleeve T-shirt, $24. Made: The Indie Emporium Shop.

Go beyond the typical Valentine's Day fare and find your sweetheart something that fits with her personal style and jibes well with her home decor. Love bird wine stoppers, call 918-794-0738 for price, Rope, 1619 E. 15th St.

Valentine's Day is often the trinket holiday, says "The Gadget Company" owner Amy Adkins. A gift featuring a collection of smaller trinkets is a fun idea. Stitch coasters, $21. Made: The Indie Emporium Shop, 501 S. Boston Ave. and 1317 East Sixth St.

Bison & Bear's Joel Hitsmas received a sweater like this one for Christmas and he can't get enough of it. Things that your guy can use often are really appreciated. Archival striped sweater, $90. Bison & Bear, 509 S. Boston Ave.

Pavilion owner Julie Kelly said the most important thing about Valentine's Day is that "something" is given. Gifts that show you've been paying attention and that in some way improve the life of your loved one will surely help you find a deeper place in her heart. Bella Il Fiore products. Metallic cosmetic bags, $12-$18. Sleep mask, $14. Whipped body creme, $22. Pavilion, 1826 Utica Square. Photos by STEPHEN PINGRY / Tulsa World

This kit is stylish and practical: perfect for your man on the go who wants to look great all the way down to the those items that rarely see the light of day. Ursa Major x Topo Designs dopp kit, $125. Bison & Bear.

The Gadget Company owner Amy Adkins said while Valentine's Day is most often thought of as a women's holiday, giving a gift to your special man is absolutely a sweet idea. Rewined Candle in Champagne scent, $29.95. Whisky stones, $19.95. The Gadget Company, 104 E. 15th St.

A gift without a card or written sentiment is a gift that's incomplete. If you aren't the best at expressing yourself, plenty of printed cards can do it for you. Just sign your name at the bottom. But if you've a writer's heart, indulge your loved one with your words. That card may very well endure once the roses have died and chocolates have been eaten. Assorted cards, $3-$4, Made: The Indie Emporium Shop.

Bravetta Hassell 918-581-8316
bravetta.hassell@tulsaworld.com

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Consider buying something that your Valentine can wear for your evening out. Jewelry in holiday-themed colors can be inspiring, and delicate pink, white or red lingerie can add a flirty touch to the day (and night), as well. Assorted Bon Bon Heart jewelry, key chain, $36-$48; Spectrum pink jewelry, $36-$48; Pen Pal Charm pen, $35; Brighton pad, $4. The Perfect Touch Gift Store, 4932 E. 91 St., Suite 106.